The site was purchased by the State of Oregon in 1922.[2] The land was originally owned by Thomas and Cora Holman, who had long allowed the public to water their stock and drink at a natural spring on the property, a purpose it had served since pioneer times.[3]

Bicycle and pedestrian traffic is still permitted in the park, although the restrooms are closed and as of 2007, they are planned to be demolished.[4] In 2007, the Parks and Recreation Department said the closure of the wayside was temporary while solutions to the park's problems were discussed.[5] A public hearing regarding the future of the wayside was held in September 2007.[6]